Convenience Store Syndrome
 

1991 Volvo 245. 10/27/15 This car has an intermittent problem according to the previous owner. We haven't been able to duplicate it since we got the car, so we aren't sure if it's due to the fact that it's a bit cooler than it has been or if the external temperature is in any way related. According to the prior owner. If you drive the car for awhile and then stop for gas or to do a short errand, it will sometimes not restart when you go to leave. Usually once it cools down it will restart. When my husband and I had an auto repair business, we saw this problem in Hondas frequently and it tended t be the fuel pump. Has anyone got any different ideas for my 1991 240 Wagon? Also, my husband is out on the road. Can anyone tell me how to test the fuel pump?

It won't start and run rough after prolonged cranking? If it does, it is the Fuel Pressure Regulator.

No, it just wont start. Not sure if it turns over and just wont start or if it just clicks. I guess that would be helpful information.

If it cranks but won't start, I'd check the fuel pump relay. The symptoms are very similar to the problems my wife had when our relay was going bad. They develop tiny cracks on the little circuit board and make intermittent connections. I typically re-solder them myself and they are good for another 10 years. If you have a soldering iron this is a quick easy thing to try and it doesn't cost anything.

Next time it won't start, listen for the fuel pump when you turn the key to the II position. If you don't hear it, most likely the relay is failing.